Prinsen af Wales Bjerge Mining Road

The Prinsen af Wales Bjerge Mining Road follows a forgotten supply route built in the 1960s to access rare earth mineral deposits in Greenland’s Prince of Wales Mountains near Ivittuut. This 32-kilometer route begins at the abandoned Ivittuut cryolite mine and winds through glacial valleys toward the mountains’ eastern slopes, passing rusted mining equipment and concrete foundations from Denmark’s last major Arctic mining operation. The road climbs steadily through alpine tundra before ending at a spectacular overlook above Arsuk Fjord, where massive icebergs calve from the inland ice sheet.

Moderate to difficult rating due to steep grades, loose rock sections, and two unbridged stream crossings that require careful line selection. High-clearance 4WD is essential, along with traction aids for muddy sections during the brief summer thaw. Accessible from late June through September, though weather windows can close suddenly. No permits needed but nearest fuel is in Arsuk, 40 kilometers south. The route offers excellent dispersed camping with panoramic views of the Greenland ice sheet and provides rare access to Greenland’s industrial mining heritage in a stunning Arctic mountain setting.